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IAAF Technical Committee member David Littlewood dies

The IAAF has received the sad news that Great Britain’s David Littlewood, a long-standing member of the IAAF Technical Committee, passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning (16). He was 76.

Littlewood was one of the most respected officials in the sport and officiated at numerous IAAF World Athletics Series events, as well as at the Olympic and Commonwealth Games and continental championships.

He was also widely involved grass roots of the sports and, at the time of his death, had been the honorary secretary of the English Schools Athletics Association for more than 20 years, as well as being a lifelong member of the club Hercules Wimbledon AC .

Cherry Alexander, of British Athletics, paid tribute to Littlewood on behalf of the IAAF Member Federation.

“British Athletics has today lost a very dear friend. David Littlewood has sadly passed away and our thoughts go out to his family at this very sad time.

"David was a remarkable man. As a volunteer in our sport, he was a loyal servant and his work impacted positively on many lives.

"He was a long standing member of the IAAF Technical Committee, the International Panel of photo finish judges and an International Technical Officer. He officiated all over the world and made many friends who held him in high esteem. His athletics technical expertise and knowledge was incomparable and had a significant impact on improving our sport. A sport which David treasured.

"His work for athletics transcended various governing bodies in the UK and he was the font of all knowledge when it came to rules, from domestic to international. He was a mentor of the highest order for his colleagues.

“Overall, we have lost a very dear friend. The impact he has had on many of our lives is immeasurable. We will all miss David very much.”

Her words will be echoed by all who knew him within the IAAF Family.

The IAAF wishes to pass on its deepest condolences to David Littlewood’s family and his many close friends around the world.